A Morning at Beijing’s Summer Palace: Gardens, Temples and Timeless Charm

During my recent trip to Beijing, one of the highlights was undoubtedly my visit to the Summer Palace. Covering an expansive area filled with ancient temples, serene lakes and lush gardens, the Summer Palace offers unique blend of nature and culture, capturing the essence of imperial China in every corner. Here’s a glimpse into my morning exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, along with some useful tips and insights for your own visit! #historicallandmarks The Summer Palace is massive, and it’s easy to get lost in its beauty. With sprawling gardens, intricate bridges, and pavilions scattered along the shimmering Kunming Lake, every step felt like stepping back in time. One of my favourite parts was walking through the Long Corridor, an impressively decorated walkway filled with thousands of colourful paintings depicting historical scenes and Chinese folktales. #culturalattractions #explore The palace also houses the magnificent Tower of Buddhist Incense, perched on Longevity Hill and offering breathtaking views over the lake and gardens. Standing here, it’s easy to understand why the Summer Palace was the retreat for the emperors - a true sanctuary from city life. #temple Interesting Facts About the Summer Palace: - Historical Significance: Originally built in the 18th century, the Summer Palace served as a royal retreat, especially for Empress Dowager Cixi, who was said to have adored this palace. #history - Size and Layout: It spans over 700 acres, with Kunming Lake covering three-quarters of the area. The palace and gardens were meticulously designed following Feng Shui principles to harmonise with nature. - The Long Corridor: This is the longest painted corridor in the world, stretching over 728 meters, adored with nearly 14,000 paintings. Useful Tips for Visiting the Summer Palace: - Timing is everything: Arrive early to enjoy the palace in a quieter setting. A morning visit is ideal, as the area becomes crowded by midday. - Dress comfortably: The grounds are extensive, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. - Boat ride on Kunming Lake: Don’t miss the boat ride for a different view of the palace. You can take a traditional dragon boat for a unique perspective from a lake. - Photography spots: For the best photos, head to the top of Longevity Hill and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, which offers picturesque views of Kunming Lake and the palace grounds. Visiting the Summer Palace was a truly memorable experience, and it’s a must-see for anyone looking to capture the magic of Beijing’s imperial past. #tourism